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From DestinationSpaVacations Other Do vacations tire you out? If you pound the pavement every waking moment, you may see more sights, but chances are you'll return home stressed and unrefreshed. The whole point of a vacation is to take time out, so don't try to see a whole country or state in one visit, and be sure to schedule in down time. Sitting by the pool is just as valuable to the heart, mind and soul as seeing what's around the next corner." Before you go Getting ready without becoming exhausted requires realistic scheduling: Don't plan to leave the minute you get off work, and allow enough time to do your packing and get everything together. One important tip: Be sure you assess your supply of any prescriptions and get them filled, if necessary, at least a week before you leave. Another stress-busting travel tip: Keep your "to pack" list for when you repack to come home. It'll remind you of that swimsuit behind the bathroom door, and your child's treasured stuffed dinosaur that got pushed under the hotel bed. If you're planning a very active vacation or will be walking much more than usual, make sure you're in shape for it well in advance. You don't want to spend precious days feeling sore and uncomfortable. And, of course, break in any shoes you intend to wear. Keep healthy, fly smart The dry, recirculated air in planes spreads cold viruses. Using a nasal irrigation system like SinuCleanse the day before, during and after the flight can help protect you from viruses as they enter your nose, experts advise. Zicam nasal spray is another good tool. It uses zinc, a natural antiviral, to help prevent or decrease cold symptoms. Also, load up on vitamin C to boost your immune system, so that you fight viruses off before they can take hold. As much as you can, stay active during your flight. Blood clots can occur if your legs are still for too long. Flex your feet and bend and straighten your knees frequently; you can even trace the alphabet with your feet to keep your muscles moving and blood pumping. Get up and move around the aircraft. Remember to pack medications, valuables and a change of underwear in your carry-on luggage in case checked bags go astray. Include warm socks for in-flight comfort. To ease back pain, consider using a pillow, rolled-up blanket or even your sweater at the small of your back to give it a more normal curve. And here's a simple tip that goes a long way: Relax with deep breathing. Release of stress chemicals like epinephrine and cortisol is triggered when breath is shallow. Relaxation chemicals are activated when breath is pulled into the lower lungs. Be good to your body If you cross several time zones, try not to nap when your head droops. Wait for your normal bedtime; you're more likely to get a full night's sleep. Anti-jet lag medications with melatonin may help, because melatonin resets your sleep clock and helps you get into different rhythms. Stop and smell the roses Do what you love, but don't forget why you wanted to get away in the first place. Maybe you felt something was emotionally out of balance - seeing five million sights will do nothing to address it. Stop and think about your goals. Are you headed in the direction you want to go in? What's your passion? This is a time outside the craziness of your life. Think about what you really want - ask the big questions. A sense of spiritual renewal is the best souvenir you can take home. Let the fun continue When life gets hectic, take 10 minutes out of each day to do something joyful. It doesn't have to be fancy. If it settles your heart, that's a good place to be. © Copyright 2008 |
